Best Brown Rice Syrup Substitutes

Looking for a brown rice syrup substitute? Explore our guide to find the best brown rice syrup alternatives such as honey, agave nectar, and date syrup. Learn how to make substitutions for similar results in a variety of recipes.

Brown rice syrup, also known as rice malt syrup, is a sweetener derived from fermented brown rice. The fermentation process breaks down the starches into sugars. This resulting liquid in a thick, amber-colored syrup. It has a mild, buttery flavor and a thick, sticky texture.

Brown rice syrup is known for its mild, buttery flavor and thick, sticky consistency. It's often used in vegan and gluten-free recipes, as well as in energy balls and bars, granola, salad dressings, and baked goods. If you find yourself without it or are seeking alternatives to it or white sugar, there are several substitutes that can effectively replace brown rice syrup in your recipes.

What is a good substitute for brown rice syrup?

There's not a one-size-fits-all substitute, but depending on use, there are several great alternatives liquid sweeteners. The type of sweetener you use can have different results. It is important to know which qualities you are needing to replace. Here are some of the best brown rice syrup substitutes that are also suitable for a gluten-free diet.

1. Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with a rich, caramel-like flavor. It's consistency is thinner than brown rice syrup but is a good alternative. It is great for drizzling on pancakes and waffles, in sauces and marinades, baked goods, and roasted vegetables. 

To substitute, use in a 1:1 ratio. Due to its higher sweetness, when you substitute maple syrup, you might want to reduce the quantity slightly. 

2. Honey

Honey offers a floral sweetness and a similar consistency to brown rice syrup. It is best for adding natural sweetness, moisture, and a touch of floral flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.

To substitute, use ¾ cup of honey for every 1 cup of brown rice syrup. Honey is sweeter than brown rice syrup. Consider starting with less and adding more until the desired sweetness is achieved. Please note that honey is not vegan.

3. Agave Nectar

Agave nectar, also known as agave syrup, is a plant-based sweetener from the agave plant with a mild flavor and thin consistency. It works well in baked goods, tea, cocktails in place of simple syrup, salad dressings and sauces. It is also a great vegan option.

To substitute, use ⅔ cup of agave nectar can replace 1 cup of brown rice syrup. It's sweeter than brown rice syrup, so substitute agave nectar sparingly.

4. Date Syrup

Date syrup is made from concentrated dates. It retains fiber, potassium, and antioxidants and is ideal for those avoiding refined sugars. It has a thick consistency and rich, caramel flavor and darker color. Date syrup will add a distinct taste to your recipes so it may not be the best option if you need something more neutral. Date syrup is great for toppings like on chocolate tahini ice cream, smoothies, drizzled over pancakes and waffles, sauces and dressings, 

To substitute, use a 1:1 ratio. 

5. Molasses

Molasses is a byproduct of sugar production, known for its deep, robust flavor. It's thicker and less sweet than brown rice syrup. Use this dark syrup in recipes where its strong flavor complements other ingredients. 

To substitute, use a 1:1 ratio. 

6. Corn Syrup

Corn syrup has a similar consistency and sweetness level to brown rice syrup. It's good substitute for recipes requiring a neutral flavor, smooth texture, moisture retention, and preventing crystallization.

To substitute, use a  1:1 ratio.

7. Coconut Nectar

Coconut nectar comes from the sap of coconut blossoms.and a mild, sweet flavor.  It has a lower glycemic index and is a healthier alternative for those watching their sugar intake and blood sugar levels. Coconut nectar is a minimally processed sweetener with a mild, earthy sweetness. It works well in baking, toppings, sauces and marinades, raw desserts, and a popular choice for paleo and vegan recipes.

To substitute, use a 1:1 ratio. 

8. Golden Syrup

Golden syrup is a cane sugar-based syrup with a light, buttery flavor. It's sweeter than brown rice syrup, so start with less than called for and add until desired level of sweetness is achieved. Golden syrup is best for recipes that need a smooth, buttery sweetness and moist texture without the strong flavor of molasses or maple.

To substitute, use in a 1:1 ratio. It is recommended to use slightly less and add more as needed. 

9. Liquid Stevia

Liquid stevia is a zero-calorie sweetener that comes from the stevia plant. It is significantly sweeter than brown rice syrup. Only a few drops of this sweetener are needed. It's best used in beverages and recipes where additional bulk isn't required and fewer calories are desired. It is a popular sweetener for those following a keto diet. 

To substitute for sweetness, use about ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon of liquid stevia to replace 1 cup of brown rice syrup (start small and adjust to taste). To substitute for bulk and texture, add about ⅔ to 1 cup of a bulking agent like unsweetened applesauce, nut butter, mashed banana, or another syrup (like maple syrup or agave) to maintain texture and moisture in baked goods or bars.

Conclusion

In conclusion, several liquid sweeteners can be used as substitutes for brown rice syrup, depending on the recipe and desired flavor and texture. Maple syurp, agave nectar, and honey are all good options.

When substituting, it's important to consider the differences in flavor, texture, and nutritional content, and to make any necessary adjustments to the recipe to ensure the best results.

Please note: Always check labels as some manufacturers Include gluten or dairy, or process In the same facility as wheat. This article is meant to help highlight gf products but is not an exhaustive list or medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for best practices and care for your individual needs.